June 9, 1984 is the birthday of Kaleth Miguel Morales Troya, a singer and songwriter born in Valledupar, Colombia. Troya wrote his first musical composition at age 13. He was regarded as the king of vallenato or New Wave Music, a Caribbean – Columbian style of folk music. Vallenato music originated in northeastern Colombia and has roots in African, European, and native Colombian music. The traditional vallenato instruments are native bamboo flutes, African-inspired drums, and German accordions. Vallenato features four rhythm styles: son and paseo, which are slower, and puya and merengue, which are more lively. Troya signed with Sony Records, and popularized this music throughout the Americas.